RAF Vigilant T1

The Grob G109B was selected to replace the Slingsby Venture as the powered glider used by the Air Cadets, and entered RAF service as the Vigilant in 1991. Various modifications were made for military use including an additional throttle in the cockpit (to better replicate for the student in the left-hand seat the configuration of a typical aircraft with right-hand stick and left-hand throttle) and provision to operate at a higher all-up weight. Not only is the airframe built by Grob, but also the 95hp engine. From the current fleet of Vigilants operated by 17 Volunteer Gliding Squadrons and the Central Gliding School, just 15 airframes will remain on strength as part of the relaunch of Air Cadet flying.